Former Conant baseball and basketball star Devin Springfield announced last week that he has committed to play baseball at Franklin Pierce University. Springfield, who won titles for the Orioles in both baseball and basketball last year, currently attends Marianapolis Preparatory School in Thompson, Conn.

“I had never really seriously considered FPU because it was so close,” Springfield said Saturday, “but when I finally realized that one of the best baseball programs in the country was in my backyard, I knew it was the place for me — not only athletically, but also academically, with their wide range of majors.”

Springfield, who was recruited to play outfield at FPU, said he looks forward to being able to play close to home.

“It means a whole lot for my family and friends to come out and watch me play,” Springfield said.

Springfield was 3-1 with a 2.08 ERA and 54 strikeouts and hit .413 with 21 RBI. last year as he led the Orioles to their first baseball title in 57 years.

“I want to know that when I leave FPU that I’ve become the best possible baseball player I can,” Springfield said, “and I believe that Coach (Jayson) King and his staff will make that happen.”